Can we just crown Tom Taylor the ruler of “Elseworlds” stories? Taylor has proven again and again a mastery of taking familiar characters, throwing them in new situations, and twisting them just enough. Dark Knights of Steel #5 is a prime example of that as we get near the midpoint of the series and get a hell of a few twists.
Dark Knights of Steel is a swords and sorcery spin on DC’s heroes with the Kingdom of El on a crash course of war against the Kingdom of Storms. Alliances have been formed. Shocking deaths have happened. As a reader, I’ve been kept on my toes with every issue. This one is a perfect example with the rug pulled out from under the reader.
We’ve learned that Bruce is the son of Jor-El and half-brother of Kal-El. Wonder Woman is on a mission to find Zala Kal-El who murdered King Pierce’s son… or did she? There’s a lot in this issue as lies and betrayals are thrown around and an ending I wasn’t expecting at all. Taylor has kept the comic fun and entertaining and unexpected!
Yasmine Putri‘s art is beautiful. Along with Arif Prianto‘s colors that pop and Wes Abbott‘s lettering, the comic is fantastic to look at. Everything looks amazing and there’s nothing to knock at all as far as the art. It all works and works so well. There’s a mastery of the panels with Putri closing in or pulling back on scenes nailing the impact for the reader.
Dark Knights of Steel #5 is just a fantastic issue. It has a bunch of “holy shit” moments that leaves the reader not knowing what’s next.
Story: Tom Taylor Art: Yasmine Putri
Color: Arif Prianto Letterer: Wes Abbot
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75 Recommendation: Buy
DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review
Purchase: comiXology/Kindle – Zeus Comics – TFAW
Source: Graphic Policy
